Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system

ABSTRACT

A system D interfaces with a multiplicity of individual terminals T1-Tn of a telephone network facility C, at the terminals callers are prompted by voice-generated instructions to provide digital data that is identified for positive association with a caller and is stored for processing. The caller&#39;s identification data is confirmed using various techniques and callers may be ranked and accounted for on the basis of entitlement, sequence or demographics. Callers are assigned random designations that are stored along with statistical and identification data. A break-off control circuit may terminate the computer interface aborting to a terminal for direct communication with an operator. Real-time operation processing is an alternative to stored data. The accumulation of stored data (statistical, calling order sequence, etc.) is variously processed and correlated as with developed or established data to isolate a select group or subset of callers who can be readily identified and reliably confirmed. Different program formats variously control the processing of statistical data as for auction sales, contests, lotteries, polls, commercials and so on.

This is a continuation application of application Ser. No. 07/335,923filed Apr. 10, 1989, and entitled "Telephonic-Interface StatisticalAnalysis System", which is a continuation of application Ser. No.07/194,258 filed May 16, 1988, and entitled "Telephonic-InterfaceStatistical Analysis System", now U.S. Pat. No. 4,845,739, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 07/018,244 filed Feb. 24,1987, and entitled "Statistical Analysis System For Use With PublicCommunication Facility", now U.S. Pat. 4,792,968, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 06/753,299 filed Jul. 10,1985, and entitled "Statistical Analysis System For Use With PublicCommunication Facility", now abandoned.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various forms of publicly accessible communication systems for providingaccess to a central station have been proposed, some involvingtelecommunications. However, sometimes a need for ancillary functionsarise in that regard, e.g. it may be desirable to positively identify alarge group of persons, as a demographically controlled group, or aspecifically entitled group, then statistically analyze data from thegroup so as to accurately identify certain persons in the group andselect a subset of at least one person. Specifically, it may bedesirable to obtain medical data from an entitled group of people, tocorrelate such data, perhaps introduce external data, then identify aselect subset of the group. In that regard, a need exists for animproved, effective, economical, and expedient system oftelecommunication incorporating means for performing qualification,identification, analysis and selection of individual persons.

It has been proposed to interface persons at telephone calling stationsdirectly with a computer facility. In accordance with such arrangements,recorded voice messages prompt callers to provide data by actuating thealphanumeric buttons that are conventionally employed for dialing fromone telephone station to another. In one prior arrangement, a caller mayactuate dialing buttons to selectively attain a communication channel orto address specific information in a computer. In another arrangement,dialing buttons may be actuated to specify a billing designation as forrequested services. Generally, such systems are believed to have beensomewhat limited in scope, often involving difficulties that arefrustrating or confusing to a caller. Nevertheless, such techniques havebeen widely used to enhance and broaden communication.

In general, the present invention comprises a telephonic-interfacesystem and related process for selectively utilizing both analog (voice)and digital telephonic communication in a variety of different interfaceformats or programs, as to select or qualify a set of callers, enablepositive identification of at least certain of the callers in the set,acquire data from callers in the set, statistically analyze acquireddata, as in combination and in association with external data (timeindependent), and accordingly to isolate a subset of the callers withverifiable identification. That is, the external data (separate fromcaller-provided data) may be introduced at any of a variety of differenttimes in relation to the caller data.

For example, a voice origination apparatus may prompt individual callerswho (after qualification) provide select digital data to develop arecord for further processing either immediately, upon the evolution ofa defined set of callers or upon the establishment of select externaldata. Thus, following a qualification phase, the information acquisitionphase may be concurrent or consecutive with respect to the processingphase. When appropriate, abort capability allows a caller to remain "offhook" and go to analog (vocal) communication. The caller then interfacesdirectly with an operator.

The system of the present invention may qualify an entitled set ofcallers, then receive answer data in the course of the call and developidentification or designation data, sequence data and statistical data.The system may then provide data cells for storing individual data whileassigning confirmable identifications to the entitled set. From the set,a subset is defined. That is, in accordance with various formats,acquired data is processed in statistical relationship, or in relationto applied external data to accomplish such functional operating formatsas an auction sale, a contest, a lottery, a poll, a merchandisingoperation, a game, and so on.

A variety of memory techniques are used to selectively activate thevoice origination apparatus. Accordingly, statistical analysis andselection can be effectively and economically accomplished with respectto a substantial set of callers who are accommodated individualcommunication through a telephone system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, which constitute a part of this specification,exemplary embodiments exhibiting various objectives and features hereofare set forth, specifically:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system constructed in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of a storage cellformat as may be developed in the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of one operating format of the system of FIG.1;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a form of processor or function unit as maybe employed in the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of a storage cellformat as may be developed in the system of FIG. 1 with the processor ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of elements in an operating function unit ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic representation of a storage cell format as maybe developed in the system of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of elements in an operating function unit ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is block diagram illustrating components of the system as spacedapart geographically.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

As required, detailed illustrative embodiments of the present inventionare disclosed herein. However, physical communication systems, dataformats, and operating structures in accordance with the presentinvention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms, some of which maybe quite different from those of the disclosed embodiments.Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosedherein are merely representative; yet in that regard, they are deemed toafford the best embodiments for purposes of disclosure and to provide abasis for the claims herein which define the scope of the presentinvention.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a series of remote telephone-instrumentterminals T1 through Tn are represented (left). The terminals aregenerally similar, and accordingly, only the terminal T1 is illustratedin detail.

In the disclosed embodiment, the remote terminals T1 through Tnrepresent the multitude of conventional telephone terminals that arecoupled to a communication facility C which may take the form of acomprehensive public telephone system for interconnecting any associatedterminals T1-Tn. In accordance with the present system, the terminalsT1-Tn operate through the communication facility C to be coupled with acentral station D, an embodiment of which is illustrated in some detail.

Generally in accordance with the present development, individual callersuse the individual telephone stations T1 through Tn to interface thestation D through the communication facility C. Callers may be screenedor qualified. Also in accordance herewith, the data of individualcallers may be collected, correlated and tested in the station D forprocessing in accordance with various programs and external data. As aconsequence, various objectives are accomplished. For example, a selectsubset of the callers may be isolated and specifically identified, orrelated data may be processed, or transactions may be actuated. Thepossibilities for application of the system are substantial and variedas will be apparent from the exemplary structure and functions asdescribed in detail below.

In one operating process format, the public might be polled with regardto locating the specific purchasers of a defective or dangerous product.Alternatively, the public might be polled with the objective of locatingpersons susceptible to a specific ailment or disease. Public auctions ofunprecedented participation are possible. Legal lotteries are enabledthat are interesting, effective and very economical on an individualparticipant basis. The system also might be employed in various gameformats or to automate a promotion or mail-order operation, even to theextent of including inventory control as detailed below.

In each functional operating format, the callers may be variouslyqualified on the basis of entitlement and may be identified forsubsequent verification. The callers then may be prompted, eitherthrough the interface or externally, to provide appropriate data.

Considering the system of FIG. 1 in somewhat greater detail, it is to beunderstood that the communication facility C has multiplexing capabilityfor individually coupling the terminals T1-Tn to the central station Don request. In the illustrative embodiment of the system, thecommunication facility C comprises a public telephone network and theindividual terminals T1-Tn take the various forms of existingtraditional or conventional telephone instruments.

The exemplary telephone terminal T1 is represented in some detail toinclude a hand piece 10 (microphone and earphone) and a panel 12provided with a rectangular array of push buttons 14 in the conventionalconfiguration. Of course, the hand piece 10 accommodates analog signalswhile the panel 12 is a digital apparatus. Generally in accordanceherewith, the hand piece 10 serves to manifest analog signals vocally tothe caller.

In accordance with conventional telephone practice, alphabetic andnumeric designations are provided on the buttons 14. For example,several of the buttons 14 carry three letters along with a decimaldigit. Specifically, the button designated with the numeral "2" alsocarries the letters "A", "B" and "C". In that manner, the buttons 14encompass the numerals "0-9", two symbols, and the alphabet except forthe letters "Q" and "Z". Consequently, the buttons 14 accommodate theentry of decimal data, and to some extent alphabetic data.

The buttons 14 designated with symbols "*" and "#", along with thenumeral "0", can be used by predetermined assignment to represent theletters "Q" and "Z" or any of a variety of other data or commandcomponents. Generally, in accordance herewith, the buttons 14 areemployed to formulate digital data at the central station D in variousformats determined by the instant specific use and operating format ofthe system.

Considering the central station D in somewhat greater detail, thecommunication facility C is coupled to interface a series of processingsystems P1 through Pn (FIG. 1, left). Specifically, the communicationfacility C is connected to the processing systems P1-Pn through anassociated series of automatic call distributors AC1 through ACn. Eachof the automatic call distributors AC1-ACn accommodates one hundredlines from the communication facility C and accordingly, may accommodateand queue up to 100 calls.

Each of the automatic call distributors AC1-ACn may take various formsas well known in the prior art, functioning to queue incoming calls forconnection to a lesser number of lines. In the disclosed embodiment,from each of the call distributors AC1-ACn, fifty lines are connectedrespectively to the individual data processing systems P1-Pn through aninterface 20 and a switch 21. Thus, in the disclosed embodiment, each ofthe automatic call distributors AC1-ACn can accommodate one hundredlines, fifty of which may be active in association with one of theprocessing systems P.

The processing systems P1-Pn are similar, therefore, only the processingsystem P1 is shown in any detail. Collectively, the processing systemsP1-Pn are interconnected with a command computer terminal CT, at leastone interface terminal IT, at least one printer PR and an audio unit AD.The command terminal CT is separately coupled to the audio unit AD.

As represented, the processing systems P1 through Pn each contain anumber of individual function units or processors PR1 through PRn.Although various other configurations and arrangements may be employed,the explanation is facilitated by including a plurality of individualfunction units as treated in detail below.

Considering the processing system P1, fifty lines from the automaticcall distributor AC1 are connected to the interface 20, an exemplaryform of which may be a commercially available Centrum 9000 unit. Theinterface 20 incorporates modems, tone decoders, switching mechanisms,DNIS and ANI capability (call data analyzer 20a) along with voiceinterface capability. Note that the interface may actually performanalysis on data. However, to preserve the disclosed embodimentmanageable, major analysis is explained with reference to processors.

Generally, DNIS capability is a function of the communication facility C(composite telephone system) to provide called terminal digital dataindicating the called number. ANI capability is a similar functionwhereby the digital data indicates the calling number with callingterminal digital signals. Both capabilities are available for use withequipment as the interface 20 and to provide control through the calldata analyzer 20a.

Accommodating up to fifty independent calls on separate communicationpaths to the central station D, the interface 20 is capable of providinganalog (voice) signals to prompt each caller. Also accommodated aredigital signals including the DNIS and ANI signals. The systemcontemplates the possibility of utilizing sequences of lines in rotaryas well as blocking sequences of lines, the numbers for which command aparticular program or operation format of a function unit as disclosedin detail below.

The interface 20 provides the connection of the fifty lines to a switch21 which is in turn coupled to fifty function units, or processorsPR1-PRn. As indicated above, multiple function units, or processors, aredescribed in the disclosed embodiment to facilitate the explanation. Ofcourse, non-parallel techniques and multiplexed operations might well beemployed as alternatives. For a similar reason, as disclosed herein,each of the processors PR1-PRn includes memory cells for each of thecallers' individual data. Development and compilation of data in suchcells according to various operating formats is described below. In thedisclosed embodiment, the processors PR1-PRn are connected collectivelyto the command computer terminal CT (incorporating a CRT display), theinterface terminal IT, and the printer PR. Note that the CRT displayserves to visually display data regarding select subsets as explained indetail below.

Exemplary detailed structures for the processors PR1-PRn are describedbelow; however, in general, the units may comprise a microcomputer, forexample, programmed as suggested above and as disclosed in detail belowto accomplish specific operating formats. As an integral part of suchformats, a caller may be qualified as belonging to an entitled set ofpersons or to accommodate specific demographic objectives. Also, callersmay be designated both with respect to their significance and theiridentification. For example, callers may have different significance ina format, depending on the time or sequence of their call. Also, thedesignation of a caller may be exceedingly important in relation to thecaller eventually being isolated as part of a subset, the members ofwhom must be accurately verified. As described below, the designationsmay involve multiple elements which may include: random numberassignments, encryption techniques, utilization of calling numbers,identification data, sequence of call and so on to facilitate reliableverification. Note that the communication facility C has a customerbilling structure B that is interfaced by the system.

On the qualification and designation of callers, the system enters adata accumulation phase during which digital data (formatted at one ofthe telephone terminals T1-Tn) is processed by one of the processorsPR1-PRn. In general, the processing evolves a subset (at least onecaller) the members of which may be verified and confirmed.

Either during the data accumulation phase, or after the processing phaseto isolate a subset, a distinct operation may involve actuating theinterface terminal T1 for direct local communication between the callerand an operator at the terminal T1. Another distinct operation mayinvolve actuation of the printer PR to provide documents in relation tothe operating format, as for providing award certificates as forverifying members of an isolated subset. Also, charge slips may begenerated containing at least part of the data of a particulartransaction.

An appreciation of the philosophical operation of a system in accordancewith the present invention may now be enhanced by considering anexemplary operation of the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1 to isolatea subset of people who are susceptible to a particular disease orinfirmity. The exemplary operation might involve a geographical area, asa large city or population center, in which a particular health problemis somewhat acute. For example, a major population center might bepolled where coronary artery disease is a significant problem.Accordingly, persons most susceptible to such disease could beidentified for corrective recommendations.

People of the population center could be informed of the availability ofa service for statistical health analysis. Accordingly, personsinterested in their individual statistical situation would be motivatedto utilize the service. Specifically, individual callers would use theremote terminals T1-Tn to contact the central station D through thecommunication facility C and thereby provide personal information thatwould enable a statistical analysis in relation to existing data so asto isolate and inform (either real time or batch basis) those personsstatistically most likely to be in need of corrective measures. In suchapplications, it may be important that the caller's identity be subjectto reliable verification. Other applications or programs also maypresent a critical need for positively verifiable identification to theextent that credit card numbers and/or personal identification numbersmay be employed.

An exemplary operation of the system, with regard to a specific caller,will now be treated referring somewhat concurrently to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3.As indicated above, FIG. 2 indicates a data storage format for a memorycell in an exemplary processor PR and now will be considered with regardto an operating format in which data is composed for a caller. Pursuingthe above example, assume the existence of a caller at the remoteterminal T1 (telephone number (213) 627-2222) who wishes to pursuehealth-related information on the basis of statistical analysis. Thecaller lifts the hand piece 10 and in accordance with conventionaltechniques actuates the push buttons 14 to call for a select operatingformat, e.g. telephone number (213) 627-3333 and thereby establishcommunication through the facility C with a designated function unit inthe central station D. Receiving the call signal, the automatic calldistributor AC1 associates the called number ((213) 627-3333, renderedavailable using standard telephone DNIS techniques) through theinterface 20 and the switch 21 to attain connection with the specificprocessor, e.g. the processor PR1 formatting the health-related program.Accordingly, the processor PR1 cooperates with the interface 20 to cuethe interface 20 to operate as a voice generator.

The sequence of operations is represented to be initiated in FIG. 3 bythe "enter" block 40 which is accordingly followed by a "cue voicegenerator" command block 42. If the ANI equipment is not employed, thevoice generator in the interface 20 formulates speech, a representativeform of which might be: "Thank you for participating in the coronaryartery disease statistical analysis. Please give us your telephonenumber by actuating the call buttons on your telephone instrument."

Acting on the instructions, the caller would push the buttons 14 insequence to indicate his telephone number, e.g. "(213) 627-2222".Alternatively, the interface 20 can accept the calling number ((213)627-2222) according to its provision by standard ANI equipment of thecommunication facility C.

The resulting data signals are communicated from the interface unit 20(FIG. 1) to the processor PR1 for testing the telephone number as validor entitled. Essentially, the format of a proper number promptsproduction of a valid or "good" signal. The test is indicated by theblock 44 (FIG. 3). If the response is not valid or entitled, for examplecontains an inappropriate number of digits or has been used to a pointof excess, the operation of block 46 is initiated again cuing the voicegenerator 30 (FIG. 1). The voice generator accordingly instructs thecaller, e.g.: "You have not entered a proper telephone number. Pleasereenter your telephone number by pressing the appropriate call buttons."The caller is then allotted a predetermined period of time to make aproper entry with the consequence that the system moves to a testoperation as indicated by the block 48 (FIG. 3). Specifically, block 48poses the query: "Is the second try good?"

If the caller is again unsuccessful, the system purges the record asindicated by the block 50 and the call is terminated as indicated by theblock 52. In an alternative mode, the processor PR1 may abort theinterface and couple the interface terminal IT for direct personalcommunication with the caller. The interchange would then proceed,person-to-person.

If the caller responds with a proper telephone number, the operationproceeds. Specifically, the system sequences to record the response ofthe proper telephone number as indicated by the block 45. That is, thecaller's telephone number is recorded in an assigned specific memorycell identified with the caller. The format of the cell C1 is indicatedin FIG. 2. The first portion, section 53, contains a form ofidentification data, i.e., the caller's telephone number, i.e. "(213)627-2222".

Note that as explained above, if the second attempt to formulate aproper number is successful, as manifest by the block 48 (FIG. 3), theresponse recorded at that stage. In either case, exiting from the block54 (FIG. 3) invokes the next operation of again queuing the voicegenerator as indicated by the block 56.

As an alternative format, if a selective-group polling operation isperformed, or callers are otherwise to be cleared for entitlement asmentioned above, a caller may be qualified by providing a "one-time" keynumber. The processor PR1 may incorporate a look-up table for proper,key numbers which numbers may be coded using any of a wide variety oftechniques. As a simple illustrative example, the key may comprise aprecise number of digits that always total a particular numerical value.

The system proceeds after the caller is qualified. Specifically, the cueto the voice generator of the interface 20 (FIG. 1) as represented bythe block 56 produces a request for further information from the callerwith further identification data and answer data. For example, the voicegenerator might request information by stating: "Please use thetelephone buttons to indicate initials of your name."

The detailed operation is not represented in FIG. 3 as it is similar tothe operation illustrated by the blocks 42 through 54. However, again, aproper response is registered in the storage cell C1 as illustrated inFIG. 2 by the number "53" also registered in the first section 53 of thecell.

The cycle of obtaining digital information from the caller next isrepeated with respect to answer data, i.e. specific health data. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the next section 58 in the cell C1receives an accumulation of health data, including the caller's age,weight, . . . , pulse rate, and so on. Representative digital numbersare illustrated in FIG. 2.

During the course of the telephonic communication, the processor PR1formulates identification data for the caller specifically including:the chronological sequence of the call, the assigned designation of thecall, and a set of acknowledgment digits for the call. Such dataidentification is registered in the caller's assigned cell C1 inaccordance with the format of FIG. 2 being stored in sections 62, 64 and66. Note that the data may be stored in a coded interrelationship. Forexample, the acknowledgment digits may be related to the call recordsequence. In the illustrative example, the chronological order number ofthe caller is 4951. The acknowledge digits may be derived from thesequence number. For example, as illustrated, a coded relationship maybe established by adding "two" to each of the individual record sequencedigits. Considering the example numerically:

Adding without propagated carries: ##STR1##

Note that the confirmation data as acknowledgement digits can beextremely important, as to communicate with an isolated member of asubset. For example, identification could be published or circulated, asby a television broadcast, then respondents checked by use ofconfirmation data that may be confidential.

Continuing with the above example, the call chronological sequenceregistered for the caller is 4951 as represented in the section 62 whilethe acknowledge digits are 6173 as registered in the section 66.Additionally, the processor PR1 develops an assigned designation number,e.g. designation "4951684", which is registered in the section 64, theacknowledge code or digits, e.g. 6173, being registered in the section66. These values are formulated in accordance with conventional numbertechniques during the data acquisition phase. With the exemplarynumerals formulated, the operation proceeds.

The processor PR1 (FIG. 1) cues the internal memory. That operation isindicated by the block 68 (FIG. 3). Thus, the processor PR1 fetches thecall record sequence number, assigns a designation (if not previouslyassigned), and encodes the sequence number as the acknowledgment digits(if not previously accomplished). These operations are indicated by theblock 70 (FIG. 3).

Next, the processor PR1 (FIG. 1) cues the voice generator in theinterface 20, as indicated by the block 72 (FIG. 3) to provideinformation to the caller. Specifically, for example, the voicegenerator in the interface 20 (FIG. 1) might signal: "This transactionhas been designated by the number 4951684, and is further identified bythe acknowledgment digits 6173. Please make a record of these numbers asthey will be repeated. Specifically, the designation number is 4951684.The acknowledgment digits are 6173. Please acknowledge this transactionby pressing your telephone buttons to indicate the acknowledge digits6173." In various applications as those involving security, the orderand acknowledgment of callers may be very important. Therefore, data forconfirmation associated with the order is important.

The system next proceeds to the test mode as indicated by the block 76(FIG. 3). If the caller provides the correct acknowledgment digits, thedata is confirmed in the record as indicated by the block 80 and isregistered in the cell Cl (FIG. 2). Additionally, the voice generator issequenced as indicated by the block 82 (FIG. 3) to indicate the close ofthe communication and that the transaction is terminated as representedby the exit block 84.

In the event that a caller cannot confirm his acknowledgment digits, asindicated by the block 76, a repeat operation is performed as indicatedrespectively by the blocks 86 and 88. Specifically, the voice generatoris queued for a second instructional message. In the event that thesecond attempt also fails, the data is purged and the call discounted asindicated by block 90 and an exit block 92A. If the second try issuccessful (test block 88), as indicated by the block 80, the record isperfected as indicated above.

As a result of the likelihood of a large number of calls, as describedabove, data cells in the processors PR1-PRn (FIG. 1) are developed withspecific information indicative of a statistical sampling of thepopulace of concern. The data of that statistical sampling may beself-generating of specific conclusions with respect to a subset ofindividuals, and/or supplemental data to clearly manifest a significantsubset. For example, the data may indicate a significant departure froman assumed normal characteristic. Such data, accumulated from thepolling may be considered by logic comparisons in the computer 22 toselect the subset of persons who should be isolated.

In addition to the self-generating conclusions available from thereceived data, the system may involve the introduction of external data.In the physical fitness example, such external data might take the formof national statistical data. In any event, the processing operationusually involves comparison testing which compares caller data fromindividual memory cells of the processors P1-Pn (FIG. 1) with test datathat is supplied through the command terminal CT.

In the above example, members of the public in general were invited touse the service. A number of alternatives exist which might well impacton the statistical analysis. For example, a list may be preserved by ause-rate calculator to implement a consumable key operation. That is, auser is qualified to a specific limited number of uses during a definedinterval.

As another example, callers might be restricted to the purchasers of aspecific product as a medical apparatus for measuring blood pressures,heart rates, or so on. In such situations, it will be apparent that thestatistical data will be somewhat distorted from an average or normalsampling. Clearly, the processors P1-Pn can be programmed to take intoaccount such considerations. In that regard, the processors might alsoverify identification data proffered by a caller. Such data might takethe form of a credit card number or a personal identification number.Methods for verification of such numbers using computer techniques arediscussed below.

As indicated above and detailed below, the system can be programmed orformatted for use in a variety of applications. Preliminary toconsidering exemplary forms of such applications, reference will now bemade to FIG. 4 showing an exemplary structural form for the processorsPR1-PRn. From the switch 21 (FIG. 1) a pair of communication lines 90and 91 are indicated in FIG. 4 (top left). The line 90 provides signalsfrom a processing unit 92 while the line 91 provides signals to theprocessing unit 92 along with other components as represented in FIG. 4.The separate lines 90 and 92 facilitate explanation.

The processing unit 92 may take the form of a mini-computer programmedto accommodate the functions of various applications, as disclosed indetail below. As indicated above, the system may utilize a plurality ofindependent function units or processing units, e.g., processing unit92, operating in a somewhat parallel configuration, or alternatively, alimited number of processors may be driven sequentially to accommodatethe functional operations as described.

The input line 91 (upper left) is connected specifically to aqualification unit 93, a sequencer 94 and a designation unit 96, as wellas the processing unit 92 as indicated above. The qualification unitqualifies access from a remote terminal T1-Tn to the processing unit 92as described in detail below. In accordance with various applications oroperating formats, the qualification unit 93, the sequencer 94 and thedesignation unit 96 operate preliminarily with respect to individualcallers. Generally, these units qualify or test callers for entitlement,develop a sequence-of-calls record and provide forms of designations forcallers that may be authenticated. As described in detail below, theunits function in sequence to accomplish such operations and accordinglyare each individually connected to the processing unit 92 and a bufferstorage 97. Essentially, the buffer storage 97 is illustrated separatelyfrom the processing unit 92 along with the unit 93, sequencer 94, unit96, and so on, again in order to facilitate the explanation. Similarlyillustrated are a memory 98 (with cells C1-Cn), a look-up table 103 anda clock 105.

Considering the processor of FIG. 4 in further detail, the qualificationunit 93 (upper left) is connected to a look-up table 99 and a use-ratecalculator 100. The designation unit 96 (top center) is connected to arandom number generator 101 and an encryptor 102.

In view of the above structural description of the system, considerationwill now be given to certain specific applications in relation to theoperation of the system. In that regard, the operation of the systemwill next be considered to automate a mail-order facility.

Assume that a caller at a terminal T1 (FIG. 1) dials a specific numberto identify a mail order interface with the system of FIG. 1. Forexample, assume the telephone number "(213) 627-4444" for such aninterface. Accordingly the caller dials the number at the remoteterminal T1. As a result, the communication facility C couples theterminal T1 through the automatic call distributor AC1, the interface 20and the switch 21 to a select processor PR1 identified and programmedfor a mail-order operating format. Note that the communication facilityC provides the dialed number ("(213) 627-4444") to the processing systemP1 through well known telephonic equipment DNIS. Accordingly, a programis selected to execute the mail order interface.

As a preliminary action, a voice responder in the interface 20 might becued by the processing unit to identify the mail-order house andindicate that the order will be taken by computer. Either before orafter qualification, the caller might be advised that if he prefers tocommunicate directly with a person, or needs such contact at any pointin the communication, he may accomplish it simply by pushing theasterisk button (*) at the terminal T1. Such action forms an abortsignal that is detected by the processing unit 92 to transfer thecommunication to the interface terminal IT (FIG. 1). Alternatively, thecustomer maybe asked (by voice cue) to provide detailed information asname, address, etc. which is recorded for later processing.

After the preliminary information is supplied to a caller, thequalification phase is initiated. For example, the interface 20 mightactuate the terminal T1 to announce: "Please indicate the type of creditcard you will use for your purchase by pushing the button number `one`for Mastercharge, `two` for . . . . "

The caller's response, indicating a specific credit card, will be storedin a data cell; however, the data is developed initially in the buffer97. The format and data for the present example (in the buffer 97) willbe explained with reference to a storage block format 104 as illustratedin FIG. 5. The first data block 130 accordingly registers a digit toindicate the card that will be used to support the caller's purchase.

Using voice prompt, the interface 20 next instructs the caller to usethe telephone buttons to indicate his credit card number and theexpiration date of the card. That data is stored in the register 104,specifically in the blocks 132 and 134 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

Next, the caller is asked for his customer number, as it may appear onhis catalog. That number is stored in a block 136 of the block formatregister 104. Note that the caller may not be identified in the files ofthe mail-order house and in that event, the operation may be shifted toa manual operation to be continued through the interface terminal IT(FIG. 1) as explained above. For a television-initiated mail-ordertransaction, other numerical codes might be employed as to key intobroadcast schedules. For example, a code might be used to indicateprogram times and thereby enable evaluation of the productivity of suchprogram times. Such operation may be performed during thedesignation-phase as described below.

To continue with the explanation of the automated format, assume thatthe customer has a file customer number and that it is stored in theblock format register 104 along with his credit card number andexpiration date. From that location, the data is checked by thequalification unit 93 (FIG. 4) for propriety as part of the test orqualification phase of operation. The check or test is in two stages andboth are performed during an interval designated t1, the qualificationunit 93 operating under control of the processing unit 92.

First, the data is verified as representing valid and proper dataformats for the customer's number, the credit card number and expirationdate. The second operation involves consulting a so-called negative listto assure that the identified card and customer's number have not beencancelled, as for example in the case of credit cards that have beenlost or stolen. Detailed structure for such tests is described in theparent case from which this case continues and may be incorporated inthe qualification unit 93.

With the successful completion and verification of the preliminary datain the block format register 104, the qualification phase of operationis concluded and the system next interfaces with the caller to acquireand process data for a specific order of merchandise. Note that in themail-order operating format, the sequence of the call is not normallysignificant. However, the sequencer 94 may log the time during a periodt2 if deemed worthwhile.

Somewhat as described above in relation to the initial operating format(health poll), the voice generator in the interface 20 prompts thecaller through a series of exchanges that load the storage block formatregister 104 with a merchandise order. Thus, as purchase items areconfirmed, the register 104 is loaded as exemplified by the blocks 140and 142. The interchange continues until the customer indicates he doesnot wish to order any additional items. The system then operates thedesignation unit 96 (FIG. 4) during the interval t3 to develop andannounce the acknowledgement digits as stored in the block 144 (FIG. 5).The acknowledgement digits serve to identify the order both for thecaller and the mail-order house. Accordingly, tracing is facilitated.The data (FIG. 5) is then transferred from the buffer 97 (FIG. 4) to aselect memory cell C1-Cn.

During the next interval t4, the processing unit 92 (FIG. 4) isolatesdata of the cells C1-Cn to facilitate the mail-order process. In thatregard, the processor 92 may incorporate structure and processingtechniques as disclosed in the parent case.

Of the wide variety of other operating formats and applications inaccordance herewith, further examples will now be described withreference to the systems of FIGS. 1 and 4. However, from a considerationof the operating formats treated below, it will be apparent that certainstructural elements have reoccurring significance in the combination.Specifically, such elements include the structures: (1) utilizing thecalled number to select a specific operating format, (2) for screeningor selecting callers who will be accepted-based on various criteria, (3)for designating callers in a manner to enable subsequent positiveidentification and (4) various processing aspects of the datamanipulations including the provision of at least a portion of certainID data provided directly from, the telephone apparatus. With respect tothe data processing, distinctive elemental features include theutilization of external data not available during the interval ofgathering data, the utilization of an interrelationship between thecomposite data collected during a data acquisition period, and theoperation of utilizing time or sequence of callers to accomplish asubset.

As the next illustrative operating format, an instant lottery systemwill be described. Accordingly, assume the existence of a legalizedstate lottery accommodated by the telephone system utilizing apay-to-dial number ("(213) 976-xxxx") and restricted to a limited numberof uses for defined intervals of time. For example, a person might beentitled to play the lottery a limited number of times or to the extentof a limited dollar value during a predetermined interval.

From the terminal T1 (FIG. 1) the caller would actuate the push buttons14 to establish contact with the processing system P1 and coupling wouldbe through the communication facility C, the automatic call distributorAC1, the interface 20 and the switch 21 as described in detail above.The initial operation then involves qualification of the caller toparticipate in the instant winner lottery. Again, ANI or callerinterface techniques may be employed. If the caller is involved, theinterface 20 is actuated by the qualification unit 93 during theoperating interval t1 to instruct the caller: "Please key in yourtelephone calling number". As indicated above, an alternative involvesthe system simply registering the calling number on the basis of itsprovision by ANI equipment.

In any event, after the caller's telephone number is registered, theinstruction is given: "Participation in instant winner lottery is forpersons over twenty-one years of age. Accordingly, please key in theyear of your birth". A driver's license or credit card number may besimilarly registered to confirm age. Alternatively, the combination oftelephone number and date of birth could be used. In any event, thecaller's data is registered and the qualification unit 93 then functionsto test the data as provided. Specifically, the caller's telephonenumber is checked in a look-up table 99 to determine whether or not itis a proper and currently valid number for use in the lottery.Concurrently, the number is checked by the use-rate calculator todetermine the number of times it has been used in excess of apredetermined number of calls or dollar value to participate in thelottery during a current interval of monitoring.

If the data indicates a qualified caller, the system proceeds to thenext phase of designating the transaction. Note that the sequence is notsignificant in this operating format with the consequence that theinterval t2 and the operation of the sequencer 94 may be bypassed.Rather, the designation unit 96 operates during the interval t3 toprovide the caller with a designation for the current transaction and ifapplicable, updates the file as to current use or dollar value remainingfor the caller's use. As explained above, the random generator 101 withor without the encryptor 102 may be employed to create an identificationnumber which may include an encrypted form of the caller's telephonenumber. Accordingly, data for the transaction is established in thebuffer 97 then set in a cell of the memory 98 (FIG. 4). Specifically,the completed data cell format might be as follows: Telephone No.-BirthYear-Designation-Random No.

The system next functions to generate the random number as indicatedabove which will then be tested against a series of other numbers todetermine whether or not the caller is a winner. In that regard,elements in the processing unit 92 which accomplish the operation areillustrated in FIG. 6 which will now be considered in detail.

A random number generator 160 functions on command to provide athree-digit number. With the consummation of a call, the random numbergenerator 160 is actuated to provide the caller's random number in aselected caller cell 162. From that location, the caller's random numberis compared with numbers from a register 164 by a comparator 166. Thenumbers in the register 164 were previously passed through a gate 174from the generator 160. In the event of coincidence, the comparatorprovides an output "yes" signal to a line 168. Conversely, the failureof coincidence prompts the comparator 166 to provide a "no" output to aline 170. Essentially, a "yes" indicates a win while a "no" indicatesthe caller has lost.

The elements of FIG. 6 provide a random operating format to determinewinners on a somewhat statistical basis; however, the system increasesthe probability with the passage of time when no win occurs. In thatregard, at the outset of an operating cycle, the random number generator160 provides a random number that is passed through the gate 174 to theregister 164. In the exemplary format, a three-digit number would beprovided. At that stage, the caller's random number, from the cell 162,would be compared with the single number in the register 164 by thecomparator 166. However, with the passage of time, calls are tallied ortime is metered by a counter 178. Accordingly, upon the attainment of apredetermined count, the gate 174 is again qualified to enter anothernumber in the register 164. Accordingly, an increasing set of numbersare held in the register 164 for comparison with each caller's number.Of course, the more numbers in the register 164, the higher probabilityof a caller winning and that relationship depends upon the duration ornumber of calls since the last winner.

Either a win or a loss as indicated within the processing unit 92 (FIG.4) prompts the interface 20 to respond appropriately to the callerannouncing his results. If there is a win, the designation may bereinforced and additional identification may be taken as explainedabove. Of course, if the prize simply involves a credit on the caller'stelephone bill or his credit account, identification and designationbecome less critical considerations.

In the event of substantial awards to be claimed, the processing systemP1 (FIG. 1) may actuate the printer PR to produce a positiveidentification of the winner, which document may be redeemed only by thecaller providing the assigned designation along with confirmation of hisidentification data.

Generally in relation to awards, the processing unit 92 may also utilizea random number format for determining the significance of awards. Thatis, a random number may be actuated to provide numerals from one throughtwenty, for example, the magnitude of the number generated for a callerindicating the significance of his award. Normally such informationwould be provided to the caller and registered in his memory cell.

With respect to memory cells generally, it is to be noted that actuatedmemory cells may be cleared for callers who are not winners.Accordingly, a limited number of memory cells store the subset ofwinners for subsequent confirmation processing and so on.

As another operating process format in accordance with the presentinvention, consider an auction sale. As disclosed herein, the auctionformat is associated with television as, for example, in the form of acable channel for dedicated use during an interval of an auction sale.

Preliminarily, in accordance with the disclosed exemplary format,persons wishing to participate in the auction sale would makepreliminary arrangements involving utilization of the system toestablish authorization data for qualified bidders in cells C1-Cn of thememory 98 (FIG. 4). In an alternative format, the bidders could simplybe qualified immediately before bidding, as on the basis of acharge-card number or other identification.

Generally, it is contemplated that callers are coupled into the systemonly during the bidding on specific items of merchandise. Accordingly,some prequalification may be desirable to facilitate the rapidaccumulation of a bidding group with the introduction of a unit ofmerchandise.

In accordance with the disclosed format, an auctioneer conducts the salein a somewhat traditional manner, recognizing that he is interfacing arelatively large audience through the system of the present inventionand with a television connection. Specifically, the auctioneer is cuedas to audience reaction by a monitor incorporated in the commandcomputer terminal CT (FIG. 1). Essentially, the auctioneer is given anabstract or summary of the relative bidding as the auction progresses.In one format, the caller sees the auction on a television receiver.That is, the monitor may be covered by a television camera to inform theaudience and particularly interested bidders. Consider the detailedsteps of the operation.

As the auctioneer announces the next item for sale, it is televised topotentially interested bidders. In addition to being informed of themerchandise, potential bidders might also be reminded of the telephonenumber for participating in the auction. Accordingly, any interestedperson at a remote terminal T1-Tn may dial the auction number and obtainaccess to the processing systems P1-Pn. The caller would have atelevision set available, tuned for example to a cable channel.

Any preliminary qualification as indicated above will then be performedalong with any appropriate designation. With regard to the designation,unless callers are identified as part of the qualification step, thedesignation unit 96 (FIG. 4) assigns a limited-digit number toindividual callers for use by the auctioneer interfacing the commandcomputer and terminal CT. Further designation and sequencing asdisclosed herein also constitute part of the process. To the extent thatqualification and designation operations may be performed, theoperations are performed as described above with reference to FIG. 4 bythe qualification unit 93 and the designation unit 96. Of course, any ofthe safeguards and limitations as described herein may be employed asdeemed appropriate for an auction format.

After the preliminaries, the auctioneer initiates the bidding withrespect to a particular item that is observed by the callers on atelevision receiver as through a cable channel. Note that the audio maybe variously-coordinated through the telephone communication facility Cand the audio channel of the caller's television. In a simple format,after an introductory phase, communication to callers with respect tothe bidding is provided through the television link. Alternatively, theaudio unit AD (FIG. 1) may be employed.

Essentially, the auctioneer initiates the bidding by stating an initialvalue for the opening bid. Callers are invited to bid by actuating thepush buttons 14 (FIG. 1). For example, the auctioneer may invite aninitial bid of one hundred dollars asking callers to so bid by enteringan asterisk (*) by punching the button so designated. In accordance withone operating format, cells in the memory 98 (FIG. 4) are actuated toregister the bidding number in identified relationship with severalcalls. Note that although a record may be desirable, it is not usuallynecessary to record all bids, particularly at initial bidding figures.In any event, the individual processing units, e.g. unit 92 inindividual processors PR1-PRn are interconnected (FIG. 1) and operate toselect the final and key bids.

After attaining the initial bid, the auctioneer may invite furtherbidding by seeking a bid of two hundred dollars or any bid. Such a bidmight be accomplished either by punching the asterisk button to attainthe solicited bid, or by using number buttons to enter a different bid,e.g. two hundred fifty by buttons "2", "5" and "0". Again, cells of thememory 98 are actuated to record select bids (sequence) at the highervalue.

The status of the bidding is presented to the auctioneer by the monitorof the command computer terminal CT (FIG. 1). Specifically, theauctioneer is provided an indication of the number of bidders at eachlevel. If a sizeable number of callers bid at a specific value, theauctioneer may wish to advance the price significantly for the nextround of bidding. Thus, the auctioneer proceeds until a small group ofremaining callers are addressed. Note that the display of the commandterminal CT (FIG. 1) may also inform the auctioneer of fresh bidders.

As the selection process proceeds, signals from the clock CL (FIG. 1)are introduced to indicate the sequence of bidders. For example, assumethe bidding has proceeded to a stage where only three bidders remainactive. The auctioneer is informed by the command terminal CT of theorder in which the callers made their bids. The sequence is also ofrecord in the cells of the memory 78 (FIG. 4) to indicate the sequencein the event that the final bid involves more than one caller. Ofcourse, the first caller to respond with a bid would have priority inthe purchase.

Normally at the conclusion of the bidding on a particular item, thecontents of the cells in the memory 98 would be purged with only thefinal bidders being held in general memory within the processing unit92. Of course, it is important to maintain a record of back-up biddersin the event the sale is not consummated with respect to the first ofthe highest bidders. That is, a subset of the highest bidders ispreserved for each item of merchandise in the event that the highestbidder fails to qualify or the sale otherwise cannot be consummated. Ofcourse, a distinct advantage of the system is the ability to accommodatea vast auction participation group for items of substantial value and asa consequence the distillation of a subset of callers is exceedinglyvaluable information.

To consider another operating format in association with the televisionmedia, a system will now be described whereby television viewersparticipate on a real-time basis in a game show for prizes. The abilityto involve television viewers in a program has the potential ofexpanding program interest along with the expanded participation.

Game shows in accordance herewith may take any of a wide variety offorms as several well known programs in which studio contestants competefor prizes. In utilizing the system of the present invention to involveremote participants, it may be desirable to preliminarily qualify anddesignate callers as explained above. Specifically, prior toparticipating in an actual game show, interested participants interfacethe system as depicted in FIG. 1, and in the course of an exchange asdescribed above, the qualification unit 93 and the designation unit 96cooperate with the processing unit 92 to accomplish preliminary data onpotential participants in cells of the memory 96.

Various games will involve different screening processes and clearances.For example, a child's television game format may require parentalclearance and in that regard written communication may be required forapprovals. Such approval may require the assignment of a personalidentification number to the child player as qualifying identificationdata.

As explained above, clearances may be perfected through the look-uptable 99 (FIG. 4) in association with the qualification unit 93 orapprovals through a consumable key step may be extended to incorporatefunctions of the processing unit 92 in association with the memory 98.For example, if qualification simply involves a check-off operation, thelook-up table 99 will normally be employed. However, in the case ofpreregistration for a participant, as in the case of the auction sale,the memory 98 is involved with the qualification unit 93 through theprocessing unit 92 to establish a data cell C1-Cn for each qualified,participant. Thus, each potential participant to be qualified interfaceswith the processing unit 92 during a preliminary interval of operationto provide data in one of the cells C1-CN to facilitate qualificationfor participation during a real-time game show.

At the time of the show, callers are qualified simply by reference totheir assigned memory cell data for a verification. Thereafter, thecaller's exchange information to supplement their data as with respectto the play which follows. Specifically for example, a caller mightselect a studio audience participant with whom the caller is to beallied. The interface operation may be essentially as described abovewherein a voice generator in the interface 20 (FIG. 1) provides signalswhich activate the remote telephone unit to speak the instruction: "Ifyou wish to play with Player No. 1, please push button No. 1; if youwish to play with Player No. 2, please push button No. 2 . . . and soon". The caller may also be instructed to indicate the extent of awager. For example, "Push the number button indicating the points youwish to risk".

The participant data is stored in an assigned cell of the memory 98(FIG. 4) for the caller and as the game proceeds, the processing unit 92tallies the caller's score. Scores are interrelated between individualprocessing units to actuate the terminal CT. Thus, individual accountingoccurs for each of the calling participants on an on-line basisdependent upon the success of the studio players and their associationwith the callers. On-going accounting data may be provided at intervalsor real time by the recorded voice to each contestant.

According to the described format, after an interval of play, theprocessing units, as the unit 92 (FIG. 4), operate to isolate a subsetof caller-players who have amassed the highest scores. Of course,various arrangements may be provided for awarding prizes to the selectsubset of winning callers.

The above format involves a real-time game show with an on-lineoperating format. A somewhat similar format involves nonreal-timeoperation and in that sense, callers may interface with the system ofthe present invention before and after the show; however, not primarilyduring the show. Such a show might involve a quiz for callers based ontheir ability to perceive and remember occurrences within the show.Preregistration may be employed, however, is not essential. Rather,callers may call after the broadcast of a program. In that event,sequence or time clocking may be very important to limit or controlindividual interfaces to a specific time or geographic "window". Thatis, as suggested above, allocation-routing equipment and techniques maybe employed in various of the formats to window callers. With thesystem, callers are screened or qualified at the time of a call,identified in a particular calling sequence, designated foridentification and quiz answers are given for subsequent processing.Alternatively, players could participate by providing their credit cardfor billing or be billed through the "pay-to-dial" network. Consider anexemplary format.

A key to participation in the game show may involve the purchase of aparticular product. For example, a person desiring to participate maypurchase a product which carries a concealed key number. The numberserves as a caller's key to participation in the game show.

In accordance with the disclosed operating format, after watching thebroadcast of a television show (possibly a serial episode) theparticipant actuates the push buttons 14 at one of the remote terminalsT1-Tn to accomplish an interface communication with the select operatingformat. For example, the caller may actuate the buttons 14 for thestation number "277-7777" which identifies the game format of currentdescription.

Assume responsive operation of the communication facility C to couplethe caller through the automatic call distributor AC1 to the interface20. Upon establishing a connection, the interface 20 receives thecaller's telephone number through ANI equipment and a data cell in thememory 98 (FIG. 4) is assigned to the caller. Specifically, for example,associative coupling is provided for the caller through the switch 21(FIG. 1) to the processor PR1 containing the memory 98 (FIG. 4) and acell C2 assigned to the caller. A block format 200 is illustrated inFIG. 7 indicating the data that is developed in the cell C2. At theoutset, the caller's telephone number is stored in a section 201followed by uses/month in section 202.

Next, the caller is greeted and requested to give the key numberentitling him to participate in the game show. The instructionconstitutes an initial action to take place in an interval ofqualification during the time t1. The caller actuates the buttons 14providing digital representations to the qualification unit 93 (FIG. 4)and the look-up table 99 is consulted. Note that the table 99 may be alarge, shared unit that tabulates each of the key numbers and accountsfor their use. If the caller has identified a proper key number, theprocess proceeds and the key number is accounted, i.e, incremented ordecremented to the limit of use if any. Alternatively, a repeatinformation operation may be requested as described in detail above.

As a further check during the qualification stage, the use-ratecalculator 100 may function to determine whether or not an excessivenumber of calls have originated from the designated number. Thus,consideration involves calls or value with reference to a predeterminedperiod of time. Again, a shared calculator may be used or addressing mayobtain selectivity on the basis of calling numbers. If a large number ofcalls have originated from a single telephone terminal, a fraudulentsituation may be suggested. Assuming no such indication occurs, thenumber of uses is registered in a section 200 (FIG. 7) and the operationproceeds from the interval t1 to interval t2.

During the interval t2, the sequencer 94 registers the precise time ofthe call in the buffer storage 97, specifically in a section 204 asillustrated in FIG. 7. With the entry of such data, the system passesfrom the operating interval t2 to t3.

The caller is next asked to identify himself in some specific manner.For example, the caller may simply be asked to provide the year of hisbirth. Alternatively, somewhat Comprehensive information may be taken asin the form of drivers' license numbers, social security numbers and soon. Of course, such data may be employed for subsequent identificationof the caller and, accordingly, is registered in the buffer storage 97(FIG. 4). Specifically, identification information is registered insection 206 of the block 200 as shown in FIG. 7.

In addition to receiving identification information from a caller, thesystem assigns a designation to the caller. Specifically, the randomnumber generator 101 (FIG. 4) provides a number which may be encryptedalong with other identification data as the caller's personalidentification to provide a numerical designation that is registered inthe storage 97. Specifically, the designation is stored in a section 208as illustrated in FIG. 7. With the designation operation complete, theinterval t3 terminates initiating the data accumulation phase whichoccurs during an operating interval t4.

At this juncture, operating elements within the processing unit 92 willbe considered in relation to an explanation of the manner in whichselect questions are provided to a caller and his answers received andrecorded for subsequent processing to determine winners.

Preliminarily, reference will be made to FIG. 8 showing elementsinvolved in the operating format which are contained in the processingunit 92 (FIG. 4) in association with the memory 98. To avoid confusion,the elements identified in FIG. 8 are designated by fresh numerals.

To accommodate the exemplary operating format, a dramatic program mightbe recorded preparatory to the television broadcast. A substantialnumber of questions would then be formulated based on the dramaticprogram. For example, "How many people were present when the will wasread?"

It is contemplated that the dramatic program would be broadcast todifferent geographical segments of the country during different timeintervals. To accommodate the different time intervals, it is proposedto utilize different questions for each geographic segment. That is, thebasic format can remain the same, only the questions change by time zoneto avoid study and collaboration on questions as a result of timeshifts. A question propounded to a Chicago caller should not be repeatedto a Los Angeles caller. In any event, callers might be given threequestions randomly drawn from a pool serving one geographic segment andthree questions drawn from a different pool serving another geographicsegment.

The signals for prompting a voice generator are registered in memorysections MS1 through MSn. Each of the memory sections MS1-MSn is servedby an address input AI1-AIn respectively. Similarly, the address inputsAI1-AIn are instructed by random number generators NG1-NGn, in turnactuated by decoders DE1-DEn. Consider the operating sequence of thememory MS1 as an example.

The decoder DE1 is responsive to telephone calling numbers (provided byANI equipment) indicative of a particular geographic area. Note, forexample, that area code numbers afford an effective geographicclassification of callers which is very useful in many formats orprocesses of statistical analysis in accordance herewith. Note thatgeographic (or other) classification in accordance herewith is alsoaccomplished by the called numbers provided. Each of several televisionstations would solicit calls fur different numbers as a result, eitherby DNIS or call channeling. Select processors would be reached throughthe interface units, e.g. interface 20 FIG. 1. In operation, the decoderDE1 determines a call is from a specific geographic area and accordinglyprovides a signal to actuate the random number generator NG1. As aconsequence, the random number generator NG1 provides a series of threerandom numbers in the form of addresses for the memory MS1. That is, theaddresses may simply comprise three alphanumeric bits supplied to theaddress input AI1 to prompt the provision of three sets of voicegenerator signals for announcing the three questions in sequence. Forexample, the first question might be as suggested above: "Push thebutton on your telephone for the number of persons present in the roomwhen the will was read".

The voice generator signals are supplied from the memory MS1 (within theprocessing unit 92, FIG. 4) to the interface 20 (FIG. 1) which generatesaudio signals to actuate the caller's hand piece 10. Accordingly, thecaller is instructed to answer three questions, the responses beingrecorded in a section 210 of the data block 200 (FIG. 7). Note that theclock 105 (FIG. 4) may be utilized to limit the response period allowedeach caller.

As indicated above, to accommodate broadcast of the program in adifferent time slot for a different geographic area, the decoder DEn(FIG. 8) actuates the random number generator NGn to address the memoryMSn to provide three different questions as a result of a randomselection. Accordingly, within a time or times (perhaps limited andoffset) after the conclusion of the program, a substantial number ofcallers are accounted for in cells of the memory 98 and similar units ofthe composite system. The cells indicate sequences of calling and alsomay contain billing data where appropriate. That is, pay-to-dialoperations avoid the need for billing, yet it may still be made ofrecord.

Subsequent to the data accumulation phase of operation, the processingunit 92 (and its equivalents) is actuated during an off-line processinginterval to isolate the subset of callers correctly responding to thequestions. In accordance with one format, the subset of successfulcallers may be reduced to a sub-subset as by a random computer "draw" todefine a group of significant winners. That is, a random numbergenerator may be employed as explained above.

As an alternative to subsequent processing, the system may informcallers of their success during the course of the interface telephonecall. That is, callers might simply be informed by cuing the voicegenerator: "Your answers are correct and in accordance with the programgame, you will now be entered in the sweepstakes draw for the prize . .. . " Thus, the format defines a subset then further selects asub-subset of winners. In any of the various formats, the status of theanalysis can be televised by selecting a camera focused on the interfaceterminal IT.

Still another operating format for the system takes the form of pollingoperations to determine opinion or facts. An illustrative form of theformat is disclosed below again in association with a televisionbroadcast.

Generally, the illustrative polling format is contemplated inassociation with a television broadcast addressing a matter of currentinterest as, for example, a political issue or election. A master ofceremonies propounds questions to a viewing audience, many of whom areon-line through an interface of a system of the present invention. Themaster of ceremonies or commentator instructs the callers who areregulated and controlled by the system of the present invention toprovide digital data which the system processes to inform thecommentator as with regard to subsets of callers. For example, thecommentator may be statistically informed as to the numbers of callersholding specific views. Consider a specific exemplary operating format.

Assume the existence of a system in accordance with the presentinvention installed for use in association with a televisionbroadcasting facility. Of course, various previous arrangements could beinvolved; however, according to one arrangement a commentator simplyinvites members of the viewing audience to call a specific number andexpress their views with respect to a specific issue. Callers located atterminals T1-Tn (FIG. 1) activate the terminals to accomplish aninterface with one of the processing systems P1-Pn as explained above.Note that the processor (or the interface 20) may involve operation ofthe qualification unit 93 (FIG. 4) to prevent callers from loading thepoll. That is, to prevent multiple calls from a single terminal thatwould distort a poll, the qualification unit 93 registers calls inassociation with the use-rate calculator 100. Interfacing a specificprocessor, callers are screened by the qualification unit 93 (FIG. 4).In such a poll, it may be important to control the sampling group on astatistical basis. For example, it may be desirable to limit callersfrom each of several geographic areas. Accordingly, by the use of ANIequipment, the caller's telephone number is provided to thequalification unit 93 during the preliminary interval t1, and adetermination is performed with regard to the number of involved callersfrom the geographic area using the look-up table 99. On attaining a fullquota from a specific area, a subsequent caller may be informed that thelines are full. Alternatively, the caller may be requested to providehis telephone number for screening in the event ANI equipment is notavailable.

The caller may be requested to provide additional information so as topoll a balanced group. For example, a caller might be asked questionsconcerning age, political registration and so on by prompting theinterface unit 20 to pose audio questions and testing the digitalresults through the qualification unit 93 as with reference to thelook-up table 99.

As indicated above, in the event that the broadcast television programis one of a series, it may be desirable to limit the extent ofparticipation over a period of several programs. Accordingly, theuse-rate calculator 100 (FIG. 4) may be employed in association with thequalification unit 93. That is, if a calling number has participated ina prior poll, it may be denied access for a subsequent poll or its datanot counted. Such operation would involve the use-rate calculator 100 inassociation with the qualification unit 93 performing logic tests toactuate the voice generator of the interface 20 for providing anappropriate interchange with a caller.

With the screening or qualification of a select group of callers, thesequencer 94 (FIG. 4) may or may not be involved to identify the orderof callers. Also, the designation unit 96 may or may not be involved inview of the fact that for many polls there is little interest insubsequently identifying callers.

In the poll-format operation of the system, it is important to provide acapability of defining select intervals during which callers may providedata. In one arrangement, with the consummation of a communicationinterface between a caller and a processor unit, the audio of thetelevision broadcast is keyed from the audio unit AD through the switch21 (FIG. 1) for communication to the caller.

With a multiplicity of callers in interface relationship with theprocessors PR1-PRn as function units, a polling question is stated, forexample: "If you favor expanded trade with . . . at the tone pressbutton one; if you do not, press button two".

To control the interval of polling, the command computer terminal CT(FIG. 1) is actuated to enable the callers timely access to theprocessors.

At the expiration of a polling interval, the interfaces may beterminated or additional questions may be propounded. In any event,subsequent to the data-gathering phase, the bulk data is supplied to thecommand computer terminal CT incorporating computing facility to isolatesubsets for communication by the broadcast. Accordingly, an effectiveon-line poll can be conducted with statistical sampling control andprompt display of responses.

As explained above, the arrangement of the function unit (or units) maybe variously embodied in a single processor or many processors,depending on various considerations as time sharing, multiplexing,paralleling and so on. The systems as described above embody thecomponents bulked together in one location. However, components of thesystem could be spaced apart geographically, using dedicated lines orpolling techniques. An illustrative embodiment is shown in FIG. 9.

Call distributors CD1-CDn are at different geographic locations alongwith associated interface units IA1-IAn and IB1-IBn. Each of theinterface units, as unit IA1 is coupled to a central processor 251 asindicated by lines 252, 254, 256 and 258. Each of the lines may take theform of a dedicated telephone line or a polling telephonic coupling.

In the operation of the system of FIG. 9, the call distributors CD arecoupled to a telephonic communication system and accordingly allow theinterface units I to provide interface communication between the centralprocessing unit 251 and a multitude of remote terminals T1-Tn asillustrated in FIG. 1. With data accumulated in the cells, it may bevariously down loaded as to a central processing station. Thus, thedistributed-component system is capable of executing the various formatsas explained above with reference to the illustrative structure.

In view of the above explanation of exemplary systems, it will beappreciated that other embodiments of the present invention may beemployed in many applications to accumulate statistical data, processsuch data, and define subsets of callers of concern. While certainexemplary operations have been stated herein, and certain detailedstructures have been disclosed, the appropriate scope hereof is deemedto be in accordance with the claims as set forth below.

What is claimed is:
 1. A process for controlling operations of aninterface with a communication facility, said process including thesteps of:providing products carrying participation numbers specifyinglimits on use to entitle individual callers to access said operations ofsaid interface with said communication facility; coupling remoteterminals to said interface for providing voice signals to saidindividual callers as to provide vocal operating instructions to saidindividual callers; receiving digital identification data from saidindividual callers responsive to said voice signals including saidparticipation numbers for said individual callers and answer dataprovided from said remote terminals under control of said individualcallers; qualifying said individual callers by testing to determine ifsaid individual callers are entitled to access said operations of theinterface based on said limits on use specified by said participationnumbers for said individual callers and accordingly providing approvalsignals for qualified individual callers; accessing a memory with saidparticipation numbers for said individual callers and storing datarelating to calls from said individual callers; and processing at leastcertain of said answer data responsive to said approval signals toisolate a subset of said individual callers.
 2. A process according toclaim 1, wherein a limit on use with respect to each of said individualcallers specifies a predetermined number of uses.
 3. A process accordingto claim 1, wherein a limit on use with respect to each of saidindividual callers specifies a predetermined dollar amount.
 4. A processaccording to claim 1, wherein said communication facility automaticallyprovides called terminal digital data (DNIS) to identify a specificformat from a plurality of formats for executing operations of saidinterface.
 5. A process according to claim 4, wherein said communicationfacility also automatically provides calling terminal digital data toidentify said remote terminals.
 6. A process according to claim 5,wherein said calling terminal digital data is stored in said memory. 7.A process according to claim 6, wherein said calling terminal digitaldata is tested to control access to said operations of the interface. 8.An analysis control system for use with a communication facilityincluding remote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remoteterminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrument includingvoice communication means, and digital input means in the form of anarray of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing data, said analysiscontrol system comprising:an interface structure coupled to saidcommunication facility to interface said remote terminals for voice anddigital communication, and including means to provide caller datasignals representative of data relating to said individual callersdeveloped by said remote terminals and means to receive calling terminaldigital data automatically provided by said communication facility;voice generator structure coupled through said interface structure foractuating said remote terminals as to provide vocal operatinginstructions to said individual callers; record structure, includingmemory and control means, said record structure connected to receivesaid caller data signals from said interface structure for accessing afile and storing digital data relating to said individual callersprovided from said digital input means through said interface structureto store designations of said individual callers includingrepresentations indicative of a calling order sequence of saidindividual callers, said record structure also including a database ofstored calling terminal digital data; and qualification structurecontrolled by said record structure for restricting the extent of accessto said system by said individual callers based on a comparison of saidcalling terminal digital data against said database of stored callingterminal digital data.
 9. An analysis control system according to claim8, wherein said individual callers provide personal identificationnumber data as caller data signals.
 10. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 8, wherein said calling order sequence is indicativeof caller transaction data.
 11. An analysis control system for use witha communication facility including remote terminals for individualcallers, wherein each of said remote terminals may comprise aconventional telephone instrument including voice communication means,and digital input means in the form of an array of alphabetic numericbuttons for providing data, said analysis control system comprising:aninterface structure coupled to said communication facility to interfaceeach of said remote terminals for voice and digital communication, andincluding means to provide caller data signals representative of datarelating to said individual callers developed by said remote terminalsand including means to automatically receive calling terminal digitaldata from said communication facility; voice generator structure coupledthrough said interface structure for actuating each of said remoteterminals as to provide vocal operating instructions to each of saidindividual callers; record structure, including memory and controlmeans, said record structure connected to receive said caller datasignals from said interface structure for accessing a file; anddesignation structure coupled to said interface structure and saidrecord structure for developing individual designations for at leastcertain of said individual callers, indicative of caller significance inorder to isolate a subset of said individual callers at calling remoteterminals.
 12. An analysis system for use with a communication facilityincluding remote terminal apparatus for individual callers, wherein saidremote terminal apparatus may comprise a conventional telephoneinstrument including voice communication means, and digital input meansin the form of an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providingcaller data including answer data, said analysis systemcomprising:interface means selectively coupled to said communicationfacility to interface said remote terminal apparatus for voice anddigital communication and including means to provide signals values fromdata developed by said remote terminal apparatus; voice generator meansselectively coupled through said interface means to said remote terminalapparatus for providing vocal operating instructions to said individualcallers; designation means selectively coupled to said interface meansfor assigning individual designations to said individual callers; andprocessing means for processing at least certain of said answer data,and storage means for registering said answer data, said processingmeans for isolating a subset of said individual callers based onrepeated comparisons of said answer data that is registered against saidanswer data being provided by said individual callers including dataassociated with said individual callers.
 13. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 12, wherein said designation means includes means forstoring sequence data indicative of a calling sequence of saidindividual callers.
 14. An analysis control system according to claim12, wherein said voice generator means is driven to prompt certainselect ones of said individual callers to provide telephone number datafor storage.
 15. An analysis control system according to claim 12,wherein said processing means processes said answer data that isregistered in combination with said answer data being provided by saidindividual callers.
 16. An analysis control system according to claim12, further comprising:transfer means for transferring certain of callsfrom said individual callers to a terminal attended by an operator. 17.An analysis control system according to claim 16, wherein said operatorenters at least certain of said answer data for said certain of saidindividual callers.
 18. An analysis control system according to claim12, wherein said storage means stores caller provided digital data andvoice data.
 19. An analysis control system according to claim 12,wherein said answer data includes caller personal identifying data. 20.An analysis control system according to claim 19, wherein said repeatedcomparisons include processing of multiple personal identifying dataincluding caller age data.
 21. An analysis control system for use with acommunication facility including remote terminals for individualcallers, wherein each of said remote terminals may comprise aconventional telephone instrument including voice communication meansand digital input means in the form of an array of alphabetic numericbuttons for providing data, said analysis control systemcomprising:interface structure coupled to said communication facility tointerface said remote terminals for voice and digital communication andincluding means to provide signals representative of data developed bysaid remote terminals and including means to automatically receivecalled number identification signals (DNIS) to identify one of aplurality of different called numbers; voice generator structure coupledthrough said interface structure for actuating said remote terminals asto provide vocal operating instructions to specific ones of saidindividual callers; record means, including memory and control means,said record structure connected to said interface structure foraccessing a file and storing data relating to said individual callers;designation means coupled to said interface structure and said recordmeans for assigning individual designations to said individual callersand storing said designations in said record means as part of said datarelating to said individual callers; and encoding means coupled to saidrecord means and said designation means for encoding at least certain ofsaid data relating to said individual callers.
 22. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 21, wherein said designation means includesmeans for storing representations of other data provided by a callerincluding caller PIN number data.
 23. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 22, wherein said other data further includes callercredit card data.
 24. An analysis control system according to claim 23,wherein said other data further includes credit card expiration data.25. An analysis control system according to claim 23, wherein saidcaller credit card data is verified to approve said caller.
 26. Ananalysis control system according to claim 21, wherein said record meansincludes means for storing customer number data which is tested todetermine if said customer number data indicates negative or canceledstatus.
 27. An analysis control system for use with a communicationfacility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein saidremote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrumentincluding voice communication means, and digital input means in the formof an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing data, saidanalysis control system comprising:interface structure coupled to saidcommunication facility to interface said remote terminals for voice anddigital communication, and including means to provide caller datasignals representative of data relating to said individual callersdeveloped by said remote terminals and including means to receive callednumber identification signals (DNIS) automatically provided by saidcommunication facility to identify a select one of a plurality ofdifferent called numbers associated with a select format of a pluralityof different formats; record structure, including memory and controlmeans, said record structure connected to receive said caller datasignals from said interface structure for accessing a file and storingcertain of said data developed by said remote terminals relating tocertain select ones of said individual callers; qualification structurecoupled to said record structure for qualifying access by saidindividual callers to said select format based on at least two forms ofdistinct identification including caller customer number data and atleast one other distinct identification data element consisting ofpersonal identification data provided by a respective one of saidindividual callers; and switching structure coupled to said interfacestructure for switching certain select ones of said individual callersat said remote terminals to any one of a plurality of live operatorswherein said live operators can enter at least a portion of said callerdata relating to said select ones of said individual callers throughinterface terminals, which is stored in said record structure.
 28. Ananalysis control system according to claim 27, wherein said caller datasignals include signals indicative of caller credit card number dataprovided by said individual callers.
 29. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 28, wherein said caller data signals further includesignals indicative of credit card expiration date data.
 30. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 28, wherein said caller credit cardnumber data is verified on-line.
 31. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 27, wherein said caller customer number data istested to determine if caller status is unacceptable or cancelled. 32.An analysis control system according to claim 27, wherein saidqualification structure qualifies said individual callers to provideaccess to at least a portion of said system.
 33. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 27, wherein said personal identification datais PIN number data.
 34. An analysis control system according to claim27, wherein at least one distinct identification is provided by saidindividual callers on-line and is stored in said record structure forsubsequent use.
 35. An analysis control system according to claim 32,wherein said access to at least a portion of said system is providedbased upon a computer generated number identifying a previoustransaction, said computer generated number indicative of callertransaction order data.
 36. An analysis control system according toclaim 27, wherein said caller customer number data is calling numberidentification data automatically provided by said communicationfacility.
 37. An analysis control system according to claim 27, whereinsaid qualification structure is further controlled by said recordstructure for testing at least certain of said caller data signalsprovided by said respective one of said individual callers to specify aconsumable participation key for said respective one of said individualcallers.
 38. An analysis control system according to claim 37, whereinsaid consumable participation key is comprised of said at least twoforms of distinct identification.
 39. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 27, wherein at least one of said at least two formsof distinct identification includes social security number data.
 40. Ananalysis control system according to claim 27, wherein at least one ofsaid at least two forms of distinct identification includes caller PINnumber data.
 41. An analysis control system according to claim 27,wherein at least one other distinct identification data comprisesinitials data.
 42. An analysis control system according to claim 27,wherein said called number identification signals (DNIS) are received byone of a plurality of call distributors.
 43. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 42, wherein said plurality of call distributors areat different geographic locations.
 44. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 42, wherein said plurality of call distributors areaccessed under control of call allocation routing capability of saidcommunication facility.
 45. A system according to claim 27, wherein saidselect format is one form of an order format.
 46. A system according toclaim 45, wherein said select order format is one form of a televisioninitiated mail order operation.
 47. A system according to claim 46,wherein said one form of said television initiated mail order operationfurther receives and stores at least a portion of calling numberidentification signals automatically provided by said communicationfacility.
 48. An analysis control system according to claim 27, whereinan additional form of distinct identification is provided by saidindividual callers on-line and is stored for subsequent use.
 49. Ananalysis control system according to claim 27, wherein said callercustomer number is verified against a record of qualified customernumbers and said personal identification data is provided on-line bysaid individual callers and stored in said record structure forsubsequent use.
 50. A system according to claim 27, wherein saidqualification structure further executes a test for unacceptablecustomer numbers based upon data developed by said remote terminalsindicative of said caller customer numbers.
 51. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 27, further comprising:means for providingcomputer generated number data indicative of sequence data to saidindividual callers.
 52. An analysis control system according to claim51, wherein said sequence data indicates caller transaction order data.53. An analysis control system according to claim 51, wherein saidpersonal identification data comprises caller social security numberdata.
 54. An analysis control system according to claim 51, wherein saidpersonal identification data comprises a PIN number.
 55. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 51, wherein said personalidentification data comprises caller telephone number data.
 56. Ananalysis control system according to claim 27, wherein said selectformat is identified by said one of said plurality of different callednumbers and is a distinct operating process merchandising format forprocessing of a customer's interactive order.
 57. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 56, wherein said qualification structure testscredit for said individual caller.
 58. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 57, wherein said qualification structure testing forcredit tests said caller customer number data for unacceptable orcancelled credit status.
 59. An analysis control system according toclaim 58, wherein said qualification structure testing for creditfurther test by scoring the instant transaction for credit approval. 60.An analysis control system according to claim 56, whereby saidindividual callers enter data indicative of the item for order.
 61. Ananalysis control system according to claim 60, further comprising:meansfor providing computer generated number data indicative of sequence datato said individual callers wherein said sequence data indicates callertransaction order data.
 62. An analysis control system according toclaim 61, wherein said personal identification data comprises socialsecurity number data.
 63. An analysis control system according to claim61, wherein said personal identification data comprises a PIN number.64. An analysis control system according to claim 63, wherein saidpersonal identification data element is provided on-line for saidindividual callers and is stored in said record structure for subsequentuse.
 65. An analysis control system for use with a communicationfacility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein eachof said remote terminals may comprise a conventional telephoneinstrument including voice communication means, and digital input meansin the form of an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providingdata, said analysis control system comprising:an interface structurecoupled to said communication facility to interface said remoteterminals for voice and digital communication, and including means toprovide caller data signals representative of data relating to saidindividual callers developed by said remote terminals and includingmeans to automatically receive called number identification signals(DNIS) to identify a select format from a plurality of formats; voicegenerator structure coupled through said interface structure foractuating said remote terminals as to provide voice operatinginstructions to said individual callers; record structure, includingmemory and control means, said record structure connected to receivesaid caller data signals from said interface structure for accessing afile and storing digital caller data relating to said individual callersprovided from said digital input means through said interface structure;and qualification structure for testing caller data signals provided byat least one of said individual callers to specify a consumableparticipation key, said consumable participation key for use during asingle predetermined period of time for restricting the extent of accessto at least a portion of said system by said one of said individualcallers on the basis of entitlement.
 66. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 65, wherein said caller data signals represent aplurality of data elements for identifying a caller or a callertransaction or both.
 67. An analysis control system according to claim66, wherein said consumable participation key is comprised of at leasttwo forms of distinct identification.
 68. A process for controllingoperations of the interface with a telephonic communication systemincluding remote terminals for individual callers, wherein each of saidremote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrumentincluding voice communication means and digital input means in the formof an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing data and whereinsaid telephonic communication system has a capability to automaticallyprovide call data signals, indicative of calling number identificationdata or called number identification data (DNIS) or both, said processincluding the steps of:providing products carrying concealedparticipation numbers specifying limits on use to entitle individualcallers to access said operations of the interface with said telephoniccommunication system; receiving said call data signals indicative ofcalled number identification data including a called number (DNIS)dialed by a respective one of said individual callers to select aspecific operating format from a plurality of operating formats of saidoperations of the interface; coupling said remote terminals to saidinterface for providing voice signals to said individual callers andgenerating said voice signals for actuating said remote terminals as toprovide vocal operating instructions to specific ones of said individualcallers; receiving digital identification data from said individualcallers responsive to said voice signals including said participationnumbers for said individual callers and answer data developed by saidremote terminals under control of said individual callers; qualifyingsaid individual callers by testing to determine if said individualcallers are entitled to access said operations of the interface based onsaid limits on use specified by said participation numbers for saidindividual callers and accordingly approving qualified individualcallers; conditionally accessing a memory with said participationnumbers and storing data relating to calls from said individual callers;processing at least certain of said answer data responsive to approvingsaid qualified individual callers; and providing on-going accountingdata to said individual callers at intervals during calls from saidindividual callers.
 69. A process according to claim 68, furtherincluding the step of:updating said limits on use on-line.
 70. A processaccording to claim 68, wherein said qualifying step further limitsaccess by said individual callers to a predetermined period of time onthe basis of entitlement.
 71. A process according to claim 68, whereinsaid processing step further includes:processing at least certain ofsaid answer data provided to questions with respect to a poll.
 72. Aprocess according to claim 71, wherein said specific operating format isan automated promotional format associated with said specific operatingformat.
 73. A process according to claim 72, wherein said participationnumbers are provided in the packaging of said products.
 74. A processaccording to claim 73, wherein said participation numbers are associatedwith an automated promotion of said products.
 75. A process according toclaim 74, wherein said participation numbers are concealed within saidproducts.
 76. A process according to claim 68, further comprising thestep of:allocating calls from said individual callers through saidcommunication facility to window callers.
 77. A process according toclaim 68, further comprising the step of:receiving said call datasignals indicative of calling number identification data with respect toall or nearly all of said individual callers.
 78. A process according toclaim 77, wherein at least a part of said calling number identificationdata is utilized in said processing step to test for excess use withrespect to said specific operating format.
 79. A process for controllingoperations of an interface with a telephonic communication systemincluding remote terminals for individual callers, wherein each of saidremote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrumentincluding voice communication means and digital input means in the formof an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing data and whereinsaid telephonic communication system has a capability to automaticallyprovide call data signals indicative of calling number identificationdata or called number identification data (DNIS) or both, said processincluding the steps of:providing products carrying concealedparticipation numbers specifying limits on use to entitle saidindividual callers to access said operations of the interface with saidtelephonic communication system; receiving said call data signalsindicative of called number identification data including a callednumber (DNIS) dialed by individual callers to select a specificoperating format from a plurality of operating formats of saidoperations of the interface; coupling remote terminals to said interfacefor providing voice signals to said individual callers and generatingsaid voice signals for actuating said remote terminals as to providevocal operating instructions to specific ones of said individualcallers; receiving digital identification data from said individualcallers responsive to said voice signals including said participationnumbers and answer data provided from said remote terminals undercontrol of said individual callers; qualifying said individual callersby testing to determine if said individual callers are entitled toaccess said operations of the interface based on said limits on usespecified by said participation numbers and accordingly approvingqualified individual callers; conditionally aborting interaction duringsaid operations of the interface with an individual caller at an remoteterminal and coupling said remote terminal to an interface terminalunder predetermined conditions for direct personal communication;accessing a memory with said participation numbers and storing datarelating to calls from said individual callers; and processing at leastcertain of said answer data responsive to approving said qualifiedindividual callers.
 80. A process according to claim 79, furthercomprising the step of:providing on-going accounting data to saidindividual callers at intervals during calls from said individualcallers.
 81. A process according to claim 79, further including the stepof:updating said limits on use on-line.
 82. A process according to claim79, wherein said step of receiving said call data signals includesreceiving said called number identification data to identify one form ofan automated promotional format associated with said products as saidspecific operating format.
 83. A process according to claim 79, whereinsaid step of qualifying based upon said limits on use takes placeon-line.
 84. A process according to claim 79, wherein said processingstep further includes:processing at least certain of said answer dataprovided to questions with respect to a poll.
 85. A process according toclaim 79, wherein said participation numbers are provided in thepackaging of said products.
 86. A process according to claim 85, whereinsaid participation numbers are associated with an automated promotion ofsaid products.
 87. A process for controlling operations of the interfacewith a telephone communication system, said process including the stepsof:providing products carrying participation numbers concealed withinthe packaging of said products, said participation numbers specifyinglimits on use to entitle individual callers to access said operations ofthe interface with said telephone communication system; coupling remoteterminals to said interface for providing voice signals to saidindividual callers and generating said voice signals for actuating saidremote terminals as to provide vocal operating instructions to specificones of said individual callers; receiving digital identification datafrom said individual callers responsive to said voice signals includingsaid participation numbers for said individual callers and answer dataprovided from said remote terminals under control of said individualcallers; qualifying said individual callers by testing to determine ifsaid individual callers are entitled to access said operations of theinterface based on said limits on use specified by said participationnumbers for said individual callers and accordingly approving qualifiedindividual callers; accessing a memory with said participation numbersfor said individual callers and storing data relating to calls from saidindividual callers; processing at least certain of said answer dataresponsive to approving said qualified individual callers; and receivingcalling number identification signals from said telephone communicationsystem for said individual callers and utilizing at least part of saidcalling number identification signals in said processing step.
 88. Aprocess according to claim 87, further including the step of:updatingsaid limits on use on-line.
 89. A process according to claim 87, whereinsaid process is for automating a promotion.
 90. A process according toclaim 87, wherein said step of qualifying further restricts the extentof access during a predetermined period of time to at least a portion ofsaid system on the basis of entitlement.
 91. A process according toclaim 87, wherein said processing step further includes:processing atleast certain of said answer data provided to questions with respect toa poll.
 92. An process according to claim 87, wherein said participationnumbers are associated with an automated promotion of said products. 93.An analysis control system for use with a communication facilityincluding remote terminals for individual callers, wherein each of saidremote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrumentincluding voice communication means and digital input means in the formof an array of alphabetic numeric buttons for providing data and whereinsaid communication facility has a capability to provide call datasignals indicative of calling number identification data and callednumber identification data for at least certain of said individualcallers, said analysis control system comprising:interface structurecoupled to said communication facility to interface each of said remoteterminals for voice and digital communication, and including means toprovide signals representative of data developed by said remoteterminals and for receiving said calling number identification data andsaid called number identification data (DNIS) to identify one from aplurality of called numbers; voice generator structure coupled throughsaid interface structure for actuating said remote terminals as toprovide vocal operating instructions to said individual callers; recordstructure, including memory and control means, said record structureconnected to said interface structure for accessing a file and storingdata relating to certain select ones of said individual callers inaccordance with said calling number identification data; qualificationstructure controlled by said record structure for controlling access tosaid system by said individual callers; and means for processing atleast certain of said data developed by said remote terminals relatingto certain select ones of said individual callers.
 94. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 93, further comprising:a plurality ofcall distributors located at different geographic locations whereincalled number identification signals (DNIS) to identify said pluralityof called numbers are received at said interface structure through saidplurality of call distributors and wherein said communication facilityfurther comprises: call allocation routing capability to window saidindividual callers.
 95. An analysis control system according to claim94, wherein said one from a plurality of called numbers corresponds to aselect one of a plurality of formats.
 96. An analysis control system foruse with a communication facility including remote terminals forindividual callers, wherein each of said remote terminals may comprise aconventional telephone instrument including voice communication means,and digital input means in the form of an array of alphabetic numericbuttons for providing data, said analysis control system comprising:aninterface structure coupled to said communication facility to interfacesaid remote terminals for voice and digital communication, and includingmeans to receive answer data signals provided by said individual callersfrom said remote terminals wherein said communication facilityautomatically provides called number identification data signalsindicating a called number (DNIS) dialed by an individual caller andsaid called number is one of a plurality of called numbers; voicegenerator structure coupled through said interface structure foractuating said remote terminals as to provide vocal operatinginstructions to said individual callers; record structure includingmemory and control means for storing answer data signals and forreceiving identification data signals for specific of said individualcallers, said record structure further including means for receivingadditional identification data signals on-line for said specific of saidindividual callers and for storing said additional identification datasignals in said record structure for subsequent identification of saidindividual callers; means for processing at least certain of said answerdata signals relating to select ones of said individual callers; andqualification structure for verifying said identification data signalsfor specific of said individual callers against a file of storedidentification data.
 97. An analysis control system according to claim96, wherein calling number identification signals automatically providedby said communication facility are received and processed by saidsystem.
 98. An analysis control system according to claim 96, whereinsaid identification data signals comprise caller customer number data.99. An analysis control system according to claim 98, wherein saidadditional identification data signals comprise at least one of callerPIN number data, caller initials data, social security number data, orcaller telephone number data.
 100. An analysis control system accordingto claim 98, wherein calling number identification data automaticallyprovided by said communication facility is indicative of said callercustomer number data.
 101. An analysis control system, according toclaim 96, wherein said identification data signals include dataindicative of caller customer number data and said additional datasignals are indicative of caller social security number data.
 102. Ananalysis control system, according to claim 100, wherein said additionalidentification data signals are indicative of caller PIN number data.103. An analysis control system according to claim 101, furthercomprising:a plurality of call distributors located at differentgeographic locations wherein called number identification signals (DNIS)to indicate said plurality of said called numbers are received at saidinterface structure through said plurality of call distributors andwherein said communication facility further comprises: call allocationrouting capability to window said individual callers.
 104. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 96, further comprising:means forproviding computer generated number data indicative of callertransaction sequence data and storing said computer generated numberdata in said record structure.
 105. An analysis control system accordingto claim 104, wherein said computer generated number data is provided ina chronological order to said individual callers during a dataacquisition phase.
 106. An analysis control system according to claim96, wherein said one of a plurality of called numbers identifies one ofa plurality of distinct operating formats.
 107. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 106, further comprising:qualificationstructure to test said individual callers on the basis of limitsspecified on use.
 108. An analysis control system according to claim106, wherein a select one of said plurality of distinct operatingformats is an automated ordering format.
 109. An analysis control systemfor use with a communication facility including remote terminals forindividual callers, wherein each of said remote terminals may comprise aconventional telephone instrument including voice communication meansand digital input means in the form of an array of alphabetic numericbuttons for providing data, said analysis control systemcomprising:interface structure coupled to said communication facility tointerface said remote terminals for voice and digital communication andincluding means to provide signals representative of data developed bysaid remote terminals; voice generator structure selectively coupledthrough said interface structure to said remote terminals for providingvocal operating instructions to individual ones of said individualcallers; record memory connected to said interface structure foraccessing a file and storing data relating to certain select ones ofsaid individual callers including voice data and digital data developedby said remote terminals; qualification structure for qualifying saidindividual callers by testing to determine if at least certain of saidindividual callers are entitled to access a processing format of saidanalysis control system; structure selectively coupled to said interfacestructure and said record memory for providing computer generatednumbers to said individual callers and storing said computer generatednumbers in said record memory; and analysis structure connected to saidrecord memory for processing at least certain of said data relating tocertain select ones of said individual callers; and means to controlprocessing formats of said analysis control system in accordance withsignals automatically provided by said communication facility indicativeof a respective one of a plurality of called numbers (DNIS) for arespective one of said processing formats.
 110. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 109, wherein said signals representative ofdata include credit card or participation number data.
 111. An analysiscontrol system according to 110, wherein said credit card orparticipation number data is verified.
 112. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 109, wherein one of said plurality of called numbers(DNIS) is a pay to dial number.
 113. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 109, wherein one form of a select processing formatpolls certain individual callers for personal information data.
 114. Ananalysis control system according to claim 113, wherein said personalinformation data includes physical characteristic data.
 115. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 113, wherein said personal informationdata includes age data.
 116. An analysis control system for use with acommunication facility including remote terminals for individualcallers, wherein each of said remote terminals may comprise aconventional telephone instrument including voice communication meansand digital input means in the form of an array of alphabetic numericbuttons for providing data and wherein said communication facility has acapability to provide called number identification data (DNIS) andcalling number identification data, said analysis control systemcomprising:multiple automatic call distributors at geographicallydistinct locations for receiving calls from said individual callers atsaid remote terminals; interface structure coupled to said communicationfacility to interface said remote terminals for voice and digitalcommunication and including means to receive caller data signalsrepresentative of data relating to said individual callers, includingcaller personal identification data and said called numberidentification data signals (DNIS) and said calling numberidentification data provided automatically by said communicationfacility, said called number identification data signals (DNIS)identifying a select format from a plurality of formats; voice generatorstructure coupled through said interface structure for actuating saidremote terminals as to provide vocal operating instructions inaccordance with said select format to said individual callers and toprompt said individual callers to enter data; record testing structureconnected to receive and test said caller data signals including saidcalling number identification data and said caller personalidentification data against previously stored calling numberidentification data and caller personal identification data; andanalysis structure for receiving and processing said caller data signalsunder control of said record testing structure.
 117. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 116, wherein said communication facilityfurther comprises:call allocation routing capability to window saidindividual callers.
 118. A process for controlling operations of aninterface with a telephonic communication system including remoteterminals for individual callers, wherein each of said remote terminalsmay comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voicecommunication means and digital input means in the form of an array ofalphabetic numeric buttons for providing data and wherein saidtelephonic communication system has a capability to automaticallyprovide call data signals indicative of calling number identificationdata or called number identification data (DNIS) or both, said processincluding the steps of:providing products carrying participation numbersconcealed within said products specifying limits on use relating to adollar amount to entitle said individual callers to access saidoperations of said interface with said telephonic communication system;receiving said call data signals indicative of called numberidentification data including a called number (DNIS) dialed by saidindividual callers to select a specific operating format from aplurality of operating formats of said operations of said interfacewherein at least one of said plurality of operating formats includes anautomated promotional format for promoting said products; coupling saidremote terminals to said interface for providing voice signals to saidindividual callers and generating said voice signals for actuating saidremote terminals as to provide vocal operating instructions to specificones of said individual callers; receiving digital identification datafrom said individual callers responsive to said voice signals includingsaid participation numbers and answer data provided from said remoteterminals under control of said individual callers; qualifying saidindividual callers by testing to determine if said individual callersare entitled to access said operations of said interface based on saidlimits on use specified by said participation numbers and accordinglyapproving qualified individual callers; accessing a memory with saidparticipation numbers and storing data relating to calls from saidindividual callers; processing at least certain of said answer dataresponsive to approving said qualified individual callers; and providingon-going accounting data to said individual callers, said on-goingaccounting data for at least one of a plurality of intervals beingdetermined at least in part by said answer data provided by anindividual caller during a call and during at least one of saidintervals includes real time data provided to said individual calleron-line.
 119. A process according to claim 118, further including a stepof aborting interaction between said telephonic communication system andsaid individual caller at a remote terminal during the operations of theinterface and coupling said remote terminal to an interface terminal fordirect personal communication.
 120. A process according to claim 119,further comprising the step of:providing prompts to said interfaceterminal during direct personal communication with data relating to saidcalls from said individual callers.
 121. A process in accordance withclaim 119, wherein said step of aborting interaction is controlled bythe success of said individual caller in accessing said memory.
 122. Aprocess according to claim 118, wherein said qualifying step limitsaccess by said individual callers to a predetermined period of timebased on entitlement.
 123. A process according to claim 118, whereinsaid step for receiving said call data signals furtherincludes:receiving calling number identification data.
 124. A processaccording to claim 123, wherein said processing step further includesprocessing of at least certain of said calling number identificationdata to test said calling number identification data to preventexcessive use.
 125. An analysis control system for use with acommunication facility including remote terminals for individualcallers, wherein each of said remote terminals may comprise aconventional telephone instrument including voice communication means,and digital input means in the form of an array of alphabetic numericbuttons for providing data, said analysis control system comprising:aninterface structure coupled to said communication facility to interfacesaid remote terminals for voice and digital communication, and includingmeans to provide caller data signals representative of data relating tosaid individual callers developed by said remote terminals; voicegenerator structure coupled through said interface structure foractuating said remote terminals as to provide vocal operatinginstructions to said individual callers; record structure, includingmemory and control means, said record structure connected to receivesaid caller data signals from said interface structure for accessing afile relating to said individual callers including said individualcallers' credit card numbers provided from said digital input meansthrough said interface structure; credit verification structure toverify on-line said credit card numbers wherein said credit verificationstructure at least verifies that said individual callers' credit cardnumbers have not been cancelled; and qualification structure controlledby said record structure for testing caller data signals provided bysaid individual callers to specify consumable participation keys forrestricting the extent of access to at least a part of said system bysaid individual callers on the basis of entitlement.
 126. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 125, wherein said individual callersare prompted to provide certain of said caller data signals to identifysaid individual callers.
 127. An analysis control system according toclaim 125, wherein said caller data signals are indicative of initialsof name or names.
 128. An analysis control system according to claim125, wherein said caller data signals are indicative of caller socialsecurity number data.
 129. An analysis control system according to claim125, wherein said caller data signals are indicative of caller PIN data.130. An analysis control system according to claim 125, wherein callingnumber identification signals are automatically provided by saidcommunication facility.
 131. An analysis control system according toclaim 130, wherein said caller data signals further are indicative ofcaller social security number data.
 132. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 131, wherein said qualification structure restrictssaid extent of access by each of said individual callers to a single useentitlement.
 133. An analysis control system according to claim 125,wherein said qualification structure restricts said extent of access toa limited number of uses.
 134. An analysis control system according toclaim 125, wherein said interface structure includes means to receiveone called number from a plurality of called numbers (DNIS).
 135. Ananalysis control system according to claim 134, wherein said callednumber identifies one of a plurality of formats.
 136. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 125, further comprising:structure toreceive calling number identification data.
 137. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 136, wherein said record structure stores saidcalling number identification data at least in part.
 138. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 136, further comprising:processingstructure to process at least certain of said calling numberidentification data.
 139. An analysis control system according to claim125, wherein certain of said caller data signals provided by saidindividual callers are stored in said record structure.
 140. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 125, wherein said qualificationstructure restricts said extent of access by each of said individualcallers to a single use entitlement.
 141. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 21, wherein said individual designations includesequence data and other caller data.
 142. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 27, wherein said individual callers provide said atleast one other distinct identification data element on-line and saiddistinct identification data element is stored for subsequent use. 143.An analysis control system according to claim 109, wherein said computergenerated numbers indicate a sequence in which calls from saidindividual callers occur.
 144. An analysis control system according toclaim 109, wherein said analysis structure processes at least certain ofsaid data relating to certain select ones of said individual callers toisolate a subset of said individual callers.
 145. A process according toclaim 2, wherein entitled individual callers are only allowed accessduring a predetermined period of time.
 146. A process according to claim3, wherein entitled individual callers are only allowed access during apredetermined period of time.
 147. An analysis control system accordingto claim 11, wherein said caller significance is indicative of a callingorder sequence.
 148. An analysis control system according to claim 27,wherein said interface structure further receives voice data from saidindividual callers and stores said voice data for subsequent processing.149. An analysis control system according to claim 148, furthercomprising:analysis structure coupled to said record structure forprocessing at least certain of said data developed by said remoteterminals relating to certain select ones of said individual callers toisolate a subset of said callers.
 150. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 149, wherein said qualification structure furthercomprises test structure coupled to said interface structure for testingdata provided by said individual callers specifying a limit on useduring a predetermined period of time.
 151. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 36, wherein said one other distinct identificationdata is PIN number data.
 152. A process according to claim 68, furthercomprising the step of:receiving and storing voice data signals fromsaid individual callers responsive to voice signals provided to saidindividual callers.
 153. A process according to claim 152, furthercomprising the step of:subsequently processing said stored voice datasignals.
 154. A process according to claim 152, further comprising thestep of:storing said digital identification data and said answer datafrom said individual callers.
 155. A process according to claim 68,wherein said individual callers are further qualified by testing saidparticipation numbers to determine whether said individual callers arecalling during a predetermined period of time.
 156. A process accordingto claim 155, wherein a clock is used to qualify said individual callerswith respect to said period of time.
 157. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 68, wherein said select operating format is accessedby a pay to dial number identified by called number identificationsignals (DNIS) and said another of said plurality of operating formatsis accessed by a number other than said pay to dial called numberidentified by called number identification signals (DNIS).
 158. Aprocess according to claim 79, further comprising the step of:receivingand storing voice data signals from said individual callers responsiveto voice signals provided to said individual callers.
 159. A processaccording to claim 158, further comprising the step of:subsequentlyprocessing said stored voice data signals.
 160. A process according toclaim 158, wherein said data relating to calls from said individualcallers includes said digital identification data and said answer datafrom said individual callers.
 161. A process according to claim 79,wherein said individual callers are further qualified by testing saidparticipation numbers to determine whether said individual callers arecalling during a predetermined period of time.
 162. A process accordingto claim 161, wherein a clock is used to qualify said individual callerswith respect to said period of time.
 163. A process according to claim162, wherein said predetermined period of time is determined by ause-rate calculator.
 164. A process according to claim 87, furthercomprising the step of:receiving and storing voice data signals fromsaid individual callers responsive to voice signals provided to saidindividual callers.
 165. A process according to claim 164, furthercomprising the step of:subsequently processing stored voice datasignals.
 166. A process according to claim 164, wherein said datarelating to calls from said individual callers includes said digitalidentification data and said answer data from said individual callers.167. A process according to claim 87, wherein said individual callersare further qualified by testing said participation numbers to determinewhether said individual callers are calling during a predeterminedperiod of time.
 168. A process according to claim 167, wherein a clockis used to qualify said individual callers with respect to said periodof time.
 169. An analysis control system according to claim 93, whereinsaid data relating to certain select ones of said individual callersincludes credit card number data.
 170. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 169, wherein said data relating to certain selectones of said individual callers includes credit card expiration datedata.
 171. An analysis control system according to claim 169, whereinsaid credit card number data is tested against unacceptable credit cardnumbers.
 172. An analysis control system according to claim 93, whereinsaid interface structure receives voice data which is stored forsubsequent use.
 173. An analysis control system according to claim 172,wherein at least certain of said data developed by said remote terminalsand at least certain of said voice data is used in subsequentprocessing.
 174. An analysis control system according to claim 173,wherein said subsequent processing includes isolating a subset of saidindividual callers.
 175. An analysis control system according to claim95, wherein said data relating to certain select ones of said individualcallers includes credit card number data, which is tested by saidqualification structure for entitlement.
 176. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 96, wherein said identification data signals arefurther indicative of caller billing identification data.
 177. Ananalysis control system according to claim 109, wherein said interfacestructure receives calling number identification data signalsautomatically provided by said communication facility, which are testedby said qualification structure with respect to a limit on use todetermine if at least certain of said individual callers are entitled toaccess.
 178. An analysis control system according to 109, wherein saidindividual callers provide caller PIN number data online for subsequentidentification of said individual callers.
 179. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 116, wherein said caller personalidentification data is PIN number data.
 180. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 117, wherein at least certain of said individualcallers are transferred to an operator attended terminal and at leastcertain of said data entered by said individual callers is displayed atsaid operator attended terminal.
 181. A process for controllingoperations of an interface with a telephone communication system, saidprocess including the steps of:providing key numbers specifying limitson use to entitle individual callers to access said operations of theinterface with said telephone communication system; coupling remoteterminals to said interface for providing voice signals to saidindividual callers and generating said voice signals for actuating saidremote terminals as to provide vocal operating instructions to specificones of said individual callers; receiving said key numbers as digitalidentification data from said individual callers responsive to saidvoice signals and answer data provided from said remote terminals undercontrol of said individual callers; qualifying said individual callersby testing to determine if said individual callers are entitled toaccess said operations of the interface by testing said key numbers forsaid individual callers against stored key numbers to ensure theirvalidity and testing said key numbers based on said limits on use forsaid individual callers and accordingly providing approval signals forqualified individual callers; accessing a memory with said key numbersfor said individual callers and storing data relating to calls from saidindividual callers; and processing at least certain of said answer dataresponsive to said approval signals.
 182. A process for controllingoperations of an interface with a telephone communication systemaccording to claim 181, where said key numbers are included in packagingof products.
 183. A process for controlling operations of an interfacewith a telephone communication system according to claim 181, whereincertain of said voice signals provided to said individual callersindicate computer generated number data formed during operations of saidinterface.
 184. A process for controlling operations of an interfacewith a telephone communication system according to claim 181, where saidkey numbers are coded.
 185. A process for controlling operations of aninterface with a telephone communication system according to claim 181,wherein said processing step processes answer data to isolate a subsetof said individual callers.
 186. A process for controlling operations ofan interface with a telephone communication system according to claim181, wherein said individual callers provide credit card number data asadditional digital identification data or said answer data, which isverified and stored in said memory.
 187. A process for controllingoperations of an interface with a telephone communication systemaccording to claim 181, wherein said operations of the interface are inaccordance with a select processing format of a plurality of processingformats identified by called terminal digital data signals (DNIS)provided automatically by said telephone communication system, furthercomprising the steps of:providing access to said operations of theinterface in accordance with said select processing format with a pay todial number and providing access to said operations of the interface inaccordance with another of said processing formats with a number otherthan said pay to dial number.
 188. A process for controlling operationsof an interface with a telephone communications system, said processincluding the steps of:providing products carrying key numbers forparticipation specifying limits on use to entitle individual callers toaccess said operations of the interface with said telephonecommunications system; coupling remote terminals to said interface forproviding voice signals to said individual callers and generating saidvoice signals for actuating said remote terminals as to provide voiceoperating instructions to specific ones of said individual callers;receiving digital identification data from said individual callersresponsive to said voice signals including said key numbers for saidindividual callers and answer data provided from said remote terminalsunder control of said individual callers; qualifying said individualcallers by testing to determine if said individual callers are entitledto access said operations of the interface based on said limits on usespecified by said key numbers for said individual callers andaccordingly providing approval signals for qualified callers; accessinga memory with said key numbers for said individual callers and storingdata relating to calls from said individual callers; and providingcertain of said voice signals to said individual callers to indicatecomputer generated number data formed during operations of theinterface.
 189. A process according to claim 188, wherein said computergenerated number data is stored in said memory.
 190. A process accordingto claim 189, wherein said computer generated number data is stored inassociation with said digital identification data.
 191. A processaccording to claim 188, further comprising the step of:providing saidkey numbers in packaging of said products.
 192. A process according toclaim 188, further comprising the step of:processing at least certain ofsaid answer data to isolate a subset of callers.
 193. A processaccording to claim 188, wherein caller credit card number data isreceived from said individual callers as additional digitalidentification data or said answer data.
 194. A process according toclaim 188, wherein said computer generated number data is indicative ofa calling order sequence of said individual callers.
 195. An analysiscontrol system for use with a communication facility including remoteterminals for individual callers, wherein each of said remote terminalsmay comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voicecommunication means and digital input means in the form of an array ofalphabetic numeric buttons for providing data, said analysis controlsystem comprising:interface structure coupled to said communicationfacility to interface said remote terminals for voice and digitalcommunication and including means to provide signals representative ofdata developed by said remote terminals and including structure tocontrol processing formats of said analysis control system in accordancewith signals automatically provided by said communication facilityindicative of one of a plurality of called numbers (DNIS) wherein saidone of a plurality of called numbers identifies a select processingformat from a plurality of processing formats; voice generator structureselectively coupled through said interface structure to said remoteterminals for providing vocal operating instructions to individual onesof said callers; record memory connected to said interface structure foraccessing a file and storing data relating to certain select ones ofsaid individual callers including voice data and digital data developedby said remote terminals; and analysis structure connected to saidrecord memory for processing at least certain of said data relating tocertain select ones of said individual callers to isolate a subset ofsaid callers, wherein processing of said certain of said data includesaccumulating multiple different personal identifying data provided bysaid select ones of said individual callers and considering saidmultiple different data by logic comparisons to isolate said subset ofsaid callers.
 196. An analysis control system according to claim 195,wherein certain of said caller data signals provided by said individualcallers are stored in said record structure.
 197. An analysis controlsystem according to claim 195, wherein said analysis structure providesindividual designations including sequence data and other caller data.198. An analysis control system according to claim 195, wherein saidselect processing format is accessed by a pay to dial called numberreceived over a pay to dial network and identified by called numberidentification data signals (DNIS).
 199. An analysis control systemaccording to claim 198, wherein at least one other of said processingformats is accessed by a number other than said pay to dial callednumber and identified by called number identification data signals(DNIS).
 200. An analysis control system according to claim 199, furthercomprising:qualification structure coupled to said interface structurefor qualifying at least certain of said individual callers for access tosaid select processing format by testing key numbers specifying a limiton use provided by said certain of said individual callers as part ofsaid digital data developed by said remote terminals.
 201. An analysiscontrol system according to claim 200, wherein said digital datadeveloped by remote terminals includes personal information data on atleast said certain of said individual callers including age data.
 202. Aprocess according to claim 122, further including a step of limitingaccess by a caller to said memory under control of a clock.